Stunning! A masterclass in storytelling. Deeply emotional and affecting.

Expertly filmed and acted, this Priest adaptation offers more than the average BL. It’s about love but also about survival, found family, and commitment.

Here’s the premise: Wei Qian and Zhi Yuan are orphaned boys trying to survive. The older boy, Qian, joins a gang in order to earn money to feed himself and his younger sister Lili. He finds Yuan, who is around 4-5 years younger, literally sleeping in the streets. Taking pity on Yuan, Qian takes him into his home and they live together as chosen found family.

Zhi Yuan looks up to Wei Qian and will do anything to make him happy, including joining the school running club or working part time after school to contribute to the family’s income. Over time, his feelings for Qian transform from gratitude and brotherly affection into romantic love.

There is a natural progression to the way we see Yuan express his feelings for Qian. He loves him through his actions, taking care of him when he's sick or exhausted. Eventually, his feelings bubble to a bursting point and he confesses. (This isn't a spoiler because ep 1 opens with this scene, and we return to it later on.)

In contrast, Qian is singleminded in his focus on his work and family. He doesn't seem capable of romantic feelings toward anyone. It's the last thing on his mind. Yuan and Lili are the most important people in his life, and all he cares about is ensuring they are secure and healthy. This all comes to a head, however, with Yuan's confession.

Content warnings: In the first episodes, we see that these boys are dealing with harsh realities, including parental abuse (shown on screen) and homelessness. Their traumas aren’t downplayed but are sensitively represented. We need to see these scenes so that we understand where these boys are coming from and what they’re overcoming.

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Well-rounded characters managing real-world problems

This series is a huge accomplishment with a misstep in the direction of the plot in ep 11, discussed below. 

First, some praise…

It has been a while since I've enjoyed a BL so much, and I think it's because this show felt realistic. It depicts well rounded characters managing real-world problems.

Bai Lang suffers from childhood trauma that affects his relationships with others. He is not just afraid of the dentist. He cannot fathom entering a romantic relationship because he thinks he brings bad luck to the people around him. Flashbacks to the past help the audience understand his trauma, phobia, and the coping mechanisms he's developed (like his cadre of plushies on his bed).

Xun An falls head over heels, and ardently goes after his man! To my surprise, he approaches Bai Lang as both a courting lover and a medical professional, recognizing that he needs therapy. I was shocked when the series brought therapy up. A cool plot development would have been to see him accept that he needs treatment and not just a lover. But credit is due for speaking favorably of therapy.

I saw some comments from viewers saying they were annoyed by Bai Lang's manic personality, but I loved that the show dared to show a truly messy, but good intentioned character who is grappling with the belief that he's too much for any lover to handle. Don't we all think that sometimes? I enjoyed seeing him accept that he's worthy of romantic love. Because he is. And when he realizes love is worth risking, he pursues Xun An in the most, hilarious charming way!

The stories of the two side couples develop more slowly, with little morsels included along the way that show the couples' dynamics and growth. I appreciated that we didn’t see insta love from Alex's perspective. Instead, we saw something more believable. The younger guy, RJ's, massive crush on the hot, older bartender. RJ did everything he could to send out romantic signals, trying to get Alex to see him as a man and possible boyfriend. The other couple, the hockey player and Da A, couldn't have been more adorable. The hockey player was so obvious in his pursuit of Da A, while Da A was confused.

I was disappointed the secondary couples didn’t get more screen time or resolution. We needed more, especially from Alex and RJ, at the end. Their story is incomplete. Season 2, please!

There was a misstep in the plot in episode 11. While earlier episodes hinted that Xun An’s relationship with his family wasn’t harmonious, the introduction of domestic abuse was an unnecessary and unmanageable addition. It felt tonally out of step with the rest of the series. With only one episode left, there just wasn’t time to treat this very serious issue. Instead, it would have been more fruitful to deal with Bai Lang’s mental health issues.

Another misstep was to include a surprise fourth couple in the final episode. Rather than this couple, or their wedding, I would rather see one of our established couples get married. At least we did have a sweet proposal!

Overall I'm amazed by the intricate storytelling and tight direction from Ray Jiang, with little details and finishing touches in each scene coming together to form a powerful series. The long take at the end of ep 8 was really impressive! Outstanding acting and OST.

Make sure to watch past the credits after each ep! There are bonus scenes and they matter!

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A heartfelt study of sex, love, and relationships

Don’t mistake this for a sex comedy, and please ignore the inadequate plot description above.

With full-bodied characters that move beyond cliches, this Taiwanese drama is a bold study of what makes our relationships intimate and meaningful. It’s beautifully made, with an excellent script and cast.

The story is told through one family. Two parents, three children.

The mother and father have allowed resentment to build up in their marriage for reasons that become clear later in the drama. The eldest son, Yu Sen, is a card shark in an unsatisfying open relationship with his boyfriend. The eldest daughter, Chu Wei, yearns for a deeper emotional and sexual connection with her distracted professor husband. And the youngest daughter, Chu Ai, is a wax technician and an influencer. She runs a YouTube channel that offers frank discussions about sex, while maintaining her key argument that love and sex are two separate things.

There’s another main character—the youngest daughter’s regular hookup and friend, Ping Ke, who is wrestling with hangups about dating culture based on his unconventional family history. The actor, Kai Ko, brings this character to life in a way that only he can. He carries the character’s emotional weight with his whole being and you truly feel for him.

Well, what happens?

A heartfelt and unexpected romance unfolds between the son and an uncouth gangster. For BL fans, this part of the story is for you. The eldest daughter and her husband rediscover each other after a challenge to their relationship. And the youngest daughter confronts a past experience that has influenced her opinion of romantic relationships. All of the characters grow.

A central message in the story is that it is harmful to repress our true feelings—whether about our intimate desires and needs or even our anger toward the people closest to us. The message is that our relationships become healthier when we share our inner thoughts.

The script dares to approach so many relevant issues that aren't always talked about; like choosing not to have children, despite pressure from parents; or sexual compatibility issues in gay relationships; or treating STIs without shame. These are just a few. The drama is clever in discussing these issues without being didactic.

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This is not what you think it is!

This drama is not what you think it is. Is it a taboo romance between a student and teacher that, if real, would be unacceptable in every possible way? Absolutely yes. But, again, this drama is not what you think it is.

In the first 5 eps, we are set up to believe that the story is nothing more than an icky romance. In episode 6, your jaw will drop, as the plot takes a total twist and the story becomes so much more. This story is part thriller, mystery, and melodrama.

The main leads have sizzling chemistry and both are sympathetic characters. At first, the ML is beyond insufferable, but if you give it a couple episodes, you'll see a big transformation in his behavior.

This is a series where the second half is way better than the first half. Don't stop after the first episode.

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An original take on love in the time of pandemic

Each of the 10 episodes in this anthology series is its own original love story. You don't have to watch them all or in sequential order to enjoy them, but all the main characters make a cameo in ep 10 and we learn a bit more about what's happened to them.

The approach to romance is unique in each episode. One couple meets on a reality tv show while another meets when their spouses are having an affair. There's an ep about a run-in with an ex and another about a playboy who inadvertently gets his comeuppance. In another ep, childhood lovers reunite, and in another, a working class man with a disability finds unexpected connection with a hard-working mom. There's even a psychedelic, out-of-this-world surrealist episode that I don't have words to describe (ep 4). In one of the most charming episodes, a man discovers he loves being a stay-at-home dad, but he and his wife have to negotiate what that means in light of gendered social expectations.

The episodes end with the suggestion of what's next rather than dramatic flash-forwards in time. In other words, the narratives focus on revealing what's going on "at the moment" rather than the details of what comes next.

Expect butterflies and sweetness but also angst and heartbreak in some of them. We see couples of different ages and at different stages of life. There's a sense of realism to the stories and their variety of representations of love. Although the episodes are set during the height of Covid, the pandemic is more of a backdrop than at the center of the narratives.

There are queer stories too. Episode 5 is in the vein of BL while episode 9 is a very touching GL.

The series brings together high production values with an all-star cast! If you’ve followed Taiwanese film and drama series, you will recognize some of your favorite actors and actresses here.

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Arc Toward Justice

Wow! This drama is amazing.

You have to watch past the first episode. The first episode is disjointed on purpose. It withholds information from the audience. Episode two presents a plot twist, and the missing shards of her begin to come together as the series unfolds.

This drama is part mystery and thriller, but more about how sexual violence impacts an individual, a family, and an entire community. It shows how people respond differently, including victims but also their loved ones.

Quite poignantly, the drama explores and condemns the cultures of silence that develop around acts of sexual violence. This silence allows predators to get away with their crimes and then commit them again. Meanwhile, victims are blamed and left without justice.

While the subject matter is serious, the drama is redemptive and moves toward justice and hope. The ending is presented with sensitivity and realism. I can’t praise it enough!

The acting is outstanding. And the OST is crazy good!

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You Will Laugh And You Will Cry!

A surprising, hilarious, and touching film about a straight police officer (Wu Ming Han) who gets married to a gay ghost (Mao Mao). The circumstances around his why Ming Han agrees to marry the ghost will make you laugh, and the grandma's adoration and support of her dead grandson (going so far as to arrange his marriage after death) are moving, even while bizarre.

Their marriage becomes the set up for an overarching plot point: solving the mystery of Mao Mao's death. And as the mystery is solved, you will be surprised. Talk about plot twist!

While Ming Han brings Mao Mao justice and needed closure to a certain conflict in his life, Mao Mao brings to Ming Han the love of his grandma and father. At the end of the movie, there's genuine love and affection between them, and Ming Han remains committed to remembering Mao Mao, even keeping his memorial alter in his home. It's clear that Ming Han accepts Mao Mao as his husband.

The film challenges us to stretch our imaginations about what a marriage can be and what loyalty to a partner can be. At the end, Ming Han demonstrates a kind of commitment to his husband that, even if not romantic or sexual, is no less true.

A little detail not to miss in the closing scene: Ming Han picking up his portable tumbler with a rainbow heart sticker front and center on it!

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Riveting study of the staffers behind a presidential candidate

This drama succeeds in making the the lives of staffers and strategists behind a presidential election absolutely riveting!

The staffers deal with all range of challenges, from helping their candidate, Lin Yue-Chen, reframe a seemingly trivial incident with a dog to navigating policy questions about immigration, the environment, and capital punishment. They are in a constant state of trying to please the public while staying principled, and they also struggle at times with losing their grip on their personal lives due to the nonstop labor they provide. The series represents this sense of chaos so vividly!

The drama also spotlights issues of sexual harassment in the workplace and homophobia in media and politics, but the message through these themes isn't all grim. Because the main characters are so sympathetic, we're drawn in to believe that justice and progress will win and can be achieved through perseverance, an engaged electorate, and principled political leadership.

The drama represents strong women characters--older women, young women, working women, wives, daughters, queer women. In fact, almost of all of the main characters are women. This focus on women is backed by a memorable statement from the presidential candidate in episode three. She says,

"Do you know the proportion of female government officials is less than 10%? This means that in terms of Taiwan's current political environment, we're still a long way from the so-called gender equality. People would often ask me, 'as a woman, is it particularly difficult to be in such a masculine political environment?' I said, 'Yes, that's right.' It's precisely because it's difficult that we can't back down all the more. We must work harder and persevere more."

This drama seems to speak directly to that reality, but also to redress it by showing women taking active roles at the center of Taiwanese politics and staking a claim in the future of the country.

The acting, music, and direction are all outstanding! The city views of Taipei will make you want to travel there immediately!

As a side note, I'll add that I've been a big fan of Ying Shiuan Hsieh since seeing her in "The Making of an Ordinary Woman." And fans of My Tooth Your Love will enjoy seeing Yu Jin in a cameo role here. Gingle Wang continues to prove her outstanding acting chops. She's simply amazing on screen!

Dropping this really interesting review written by Divya Malladi here at the bottom, "‘Wave Makers’ Review: Why The Taiwanese Series Is Far Better Than Korean ‘Queenmaker’": https://dmtalkies.com/wave-makers-season-1-review-2023-netflix-south-east-asian-series/

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Captivating...An Emotional Journey

Based on the novel "Miracle" by the legendary Lin Pei Yu, this series is about a gangster and a high school student fighting for their impossible love.

What I liked about their relationship was that their obstacles were external. Once they admitted they liked each other, Bai Zong Yi and Fan Ze Rui were totally committed. They were unshakeable in their devotion, but they have to overcome threats from the outside.

The second CP have their own gut-wrenching plot line. Ai Di and Chen Yi were both raised by the mafia, and Ai Di has suffered from unrequited love for his friend. Watching Ai Di come into the realization that his love may not be as unrequited as he thought was a joy to witness. He deserves all the love!

The Big Boss of the gang has has his own romantic spark with another man but their backstory is not fully fleshed out in the show. I heard Lin Pei Yu suggest in an interview that the 3rd book in this trilogy is their story. I'd love to see their story on screen. Since Pei Yu is both a screenwriter and producer of this series, I'm hoping we can see this team film all three books in the trilogy.

Finally, I wanted to comment on the ages of the main cp. I've read the book. Bai Zong Yi is 17 and Fan Ze Rui is 22. Spoiler ahead: The fact Zong Yi is a minor is important to the story, because it means he gets a lighter sentence for the crime (which he doesn't actually commit). This point about his age is reiterated by the big boss in the series.

None of the characters have a problem with their age gap (because it isn't illegal in Taiwan) but I understand that many viewers may be uncomfortable with it. If this is you, I recommend not watching any further. It's a disservice to the series to dismiss it with a low rating just because of their ages.

Series Highlights: The acting and chemistry between the cast. The endless parade of cameos from BL actors. The OST. Ai Di's wardrobe. The rewatch value...I've already rewatched several times!

Tip: Make sure to watch the special episode called Kiseki+ on Youtube. It basically ep 8.5 and should be watched between eps 8 and 9.

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Something NEW in the BL genre!

This series has managed to do something NEW in the BL genre. Don't be deceived by the first few episodes. The show is just settling into to one of the sweetest, most original series I've seen. It's about close friendships, acceptance, and love. It's a slow burn but worth every second!

The drama addresses a serious topic and it could have gone really wrong...but it didn't. Pretty early on, the audience is meant to understand that Amber and Wen Wen are the same person, but we don't know the circumstances of what happened yet. When it is revealed, the characters approach Amber's changed gender identity with acceptance and care. Le even asks what name Amber prefers. It's also clear that he fell in love with Amber before realizing he's their childhood friend, which helps the audience understand that he loves Amber just the way he is. 

The side couple is adorable and, although I've seen some people suggest that they aren't important to the plot, I disagree. While the pacing of their story could have been improved, the couple shows that this group of friends already has important queer members among them. In a way, their relationship sets the stage for Le and Amber to have the assurance of acceptance regarding their relationship and Amber's identity. It's also just nice to see an established, long-term gay couple overcome challenges in their relationship. 

Important note: In the translation I watched on Viki, I saw people commenting disparagingly about the characters not using proper pronouns for Amber. This isn't the case! Mandarin only has one pronoun for he/she/it, so the fault lies with the translator. Don't blame the characters. 

Amazing OST. Gorgeous cinematography. Stellar cast. 

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Sure to warm your heart

The On1y One is an achingly sweet slow burn about two boys. One is the new kid in class, Sheng Wang. He’s adorable and eager but struggling with the aftereffects of the loss of his mother. The other, Jiang Tian, is an observant, aloof class favorite with a tender heart that he tries to hide. These boys are not just classmates but begin living together since their parents are dating. They are drawn to each other early on, and quietly grow closer and open up. Their interactions are heart fluttering to watch.

This series is more than a romance. It's about the growing pains of adolescence, the development of earnest friendship, and the love and support of family. There's a nostalgic and sincere tone to each episode. You can tell that a lot of heart has been put into its production.

It's based on a book, which has a happy ending. Be forwarded however that the series ends at a mid point and leaves the door open for a season 2.

I loved everything about this series. It isn’t glossy or overproduced. There’s no exaggerated acting. No intrusive sound effects. From the director of Your Name Engraved Herein, you can tell he took a naturalistic approach to the story and production. High schoolers act like high schoolers and struggle with issues that are age-appropriate like grades and making friends. The two main leads are a pleasure to watch. Both have the gift of delivering micro-expressions that convey so much meaning.

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Comedy Gold

Someone needs to give the script writers an award. This movie is comedy gold and the ratings should be higher! It has everything I want out of a gangster comedy.

Vivian Sung plays A-Fen, a really terrible hairdresser, and Hong Chun Feng plays Tai, a gang leader who stumbles into her salon during a gang fight. He falls head over heels and starts enlisting her salon services for himself and his gang brothers. There are so many bad haircuts! Tai tries to woo A-Fen (with hilarious help from her family), while also trying to solve a mystery about who attacked his gang.

While the film is fun, funny, and joyful, it's also vulgar and violent. Be prepared to laugh and squirm.

Make sure you watch past the initial credits because the movie isn't over yet!

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